Biomarkers and health status of the crab Ucides cordatus to assess the impact of contaminants in an estuarine mangrove region in the Brazilian Amazon
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22478/ufpb.1981-1268.2023v17n1.65979Abstract
The present work aims to analyze biomarkers and health status of the crab Ucides cordatus to verify the stress levels of an estuarine mangrove region in the Brazilian Amazon. For this, males U. cordatus were captured in two areas (P1 = industrial harbor region and P2 = region close to a fishing pier) for further analysis of biometry, biomarkers and organ damage index (gills and hepatopancreas). In addition, water samples were collected for the investigation of trace metals. The results showed higher values of trace metals and histological lesions in P1, but it was observed that the organ damage was similar between the areas. Lesions classified as irreversible were found in large numbers in P1, compromising the functioning of the organ and the health of organisms residing in this region. Therefore, crabs are under impacts showing biological responses and probably bioaccumulating harmful substances, compromising the health of the species.